Eggs Benedict has always been my go-to breakfast order, and honestly, once I started making it at home, I realized it’s not as hard as it sounds. It’s one of those meals that feels a little fancy but is actually very doable, even on a relaxed morning. You’ve got a toasted English muffin, warm slices of Beef, turkey or chicken ham, a soft poached egg, and that creamy hollandaise sauce poured right on top. It’s cozy, filling, and perfect for a weekend breakfast with family.
This recipe makes 4 servings and takes about 35 minutes total from start to finish.
Ingredients
For the base:
- 2 English muffins, split
- 4 large eggs
- 4 slices beef, turkey or chicken ham
- A small splash of vinegar (optional)
For the Hollandaise sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 egg yolks
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice or lime juice
- 1 tablespoon heavy whipping cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Equipment
You’ll also want a slotted spoon, a small saucepan, and a mixing bowl to make things easier.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Start with the hollandaise sauce because you can keep it warm while you prepare everything else. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. While that’s melting, grab a bowl and whisk the egg yolks. Add the lemon juice, cream, salt, and pepper, and give it a good mix.
Now comes the important part, but don’t worry, it’s simple. Take a spoonful of the hot butter and slowly mix it into the egg mixture while stirring. Keep doing this one spoon at a time. This helps warm the eggs gently, so they don’t scramble. Once all the butter is mixed in, pour everything back into the saucepan. Cook it on low heat for about 20 to 30 seconds, stirring the whole time. It will start to thicken a bit. Turn off the heat and set it aside. If it feels too thick later, just stir in a tiny splash of cream.
Next, let’s poach the eggs. Fill a pot with about 3 inches of water and bring it to a boil, then lower the heat so it’s just gently simmering. You should see small bubbles, not a full boil. Add a splash of vinegar if you like, it helps keep the egg together.
Crack one egg into a small cup, then gently slide it into the water. Let it cook for about 3 to 5 minutes depending on how you like your yolk. I usually go for that soft, slightly runny center. Use a slotted spoon to lift it out and set it aside. If you see some foam on the water, that’s totally normal, just skim it off.
While the eggs are cooking, heat a pan over medium-high heat and cook the turkey or chicken ham slices for about a minute on each side until they’re warmed through and lightly browned.
Now for the fun part, putting it all together. Toast your English muffins until they’re nice and golden. Place a slice of turkey or chicken ham on each half, then add a poached egg right on top. Spoon that warm hollandaise sauce over everything. Don’t be shy with the sauce, that’s what makes it so good.
Serve it right away while everything is warm and fresh. This is one of those breakfasts that feels special, but once you’ve made it a couple of times, it becomes second nature.
Optional Tips and Easy Swaps
If you want to switch things up, you can replace the turkey ham with sautéed spinach or mushrooms for a vegetarian version. It’s also really good with avocado slices.
If you’re trying to make it a bit lighter, you can use less butter in the sauce or swap the cream with milk.
Hollandaise sauce is best fresh, but if you need to make it ahead, you can store it in the fridge for a day and warm it gently in the microwave for about 10 to 20 seconds. Just stir it well before using.
You can also sprinkle a little paprika or fresh herbs on top right before serving to add a bit more flavor and color.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 348 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Cholesterol: 408 mg
- Sodium: 562 mg
- Potassium: 228 mg
- Vitamin A: 900 IU
- Vitamin C: 3.4 mg
- Calcium: 66 mg
- Iron: 1.7 mg
Disclaimer:
Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.